IMO, if Phillips has a future beyond Auburn, it is in the interior line on defense. His dimensions dictate it. He has great feet with overall agility and a burst of quickness, far more than most individuals his size to come through Auburn.
Fairley was not a great force last season and what seemed to click with him might also work for Phillips with some work. I suppose it depends on his mentality and work ethic. But something happened with Nick, and it wasn't just learning a few moves that made him the Lombardi winner. Phillips can always be a short yardage specialist when needed.